Influential Woman · Construction & Home Improvement
Leah Carmelo
Owner / Residential General Contractor, Apache Restoration and Design
Boerne, TX 78063
Her Story
About Leah
Leah Carmelo is a residential general contractor, business owner, and inventor based in the Boerne, Texas area. She is the owner of Apache Restoration and Design, where she provides residential remodeling, custom design, and home improvement services. Since launching her business in 2021, Leah has developed expertise in projects ranging from kitchen and bath renovations to epoxy flooring, concrete countertops, and geometric feature walls. Her career also includes extensive experience as a general and lead foreman, overseeing project production, employee responsibilities, equipment, safety, and completion schedules.
Leah's approach to her work is rooted in determination, creativity, and hands-on problem-solving. Much of her construction knowledge has been self-taught, complemented by design and furniture-related training earlier in her career. Her experience in a traditionally male-dominated industry has strengthened her resilience and confidence, and she takes pride in demonstrating that women can excel in skilled trades and construction. As an inventor, Leah is also interested in developing practical ideas and pursuing opportunities to bring her innovations to life, reflecting her broader commitment to creative thinking and finding solutions to everyday challenges.
Beyond her professional work, Leah is deeply committed to animal welfare and community service. She has personally helped spay and neuter 142 cats and has been involved in caring for and assisting numerous rescued cats and dogs. She is currently helping with a property renovation while caring for 24 cats and three dogs, and she has expressed interest in establishing a nonprofit focused on addressing animal overpopulation and abandonment in her rural community. Leah also takes pride in her Apache heritage and remains connected to her cultural roots. Her dedication to family, animals, craftsmanship, entrepreneurship, and community reflects a life driven by perseverance, compassion, and a desire to make a meaningful difference.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Leah
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to determination, perseverance, and my refusal to give up. I genuinely love what I do and have always been driven by a desire to create and build things with my own hands. That passion, along with my commitment to seeing projects through, has helped me achieve my goals and create meaningful things, such as building a playground for my grandchildren.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the construction industry is to remember that just because you can do something doesn’t mean you should push yourself to the point of exhaustion. Take care of your body, get enough sleep, and recognize your limits. Construction can be physically demanding, but you don’t have to abuse your body or prove yourself by trying to keep up with the boys. Work smart, protect your health, and build a career that you can sustain for the long term.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is being a woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry, where I often have to work harder to prove my skills and capabilities. Another challenge is the physical toll that labor-intensive work can take on the body. These challenges have reinforced the importance of building a sustainable career while recognizing the value of strength, experience, and working smarter.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are family, heritage, compassion, and community service. Caring for my daughter, who requires full-time care, is one of my greatest priorities. I am also proud of my Apache heritage and value the traditions and identity it represents. In my community, I care deeply about addressing animal abandonment in our rural area and have worked with the local Chamber of Commerce on initiatives to help make a difference.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.